“It is true that Inter are tracking Richards and have had talks with agent Alexander Livac, who I collaborate with, even if there’s a long way to go,” Italian representative Dario Canovi told Mediaset Premium.

“He is an important player who was in the Olympics last year. City rate him highly, but if a big club like Inter comes along, then he will reflect on it.

“I wouldn’t be able to say whether a loan deal is to be excluded. In any case, Inter and Manchester City have an excellent rapport.

“The Napoli talent scouts last year were convinced Richards was the right man for Walter Mazzarri’s football.”